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Stanford Health Care

MRI-Guided Cryoablation

Our Approach to MRI-Guided Cryoablation

Cryoablation freezes and destroys cancer cells, noncancerous tumors, and abnormal tissues. At Stanford Health Care, we couple cryoablation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to precisely target abnormal growths while sparing healthy tissue. MRI-guided cryoablation involves fewer side effects and a lower risk of complications than open surgery.

900 Blake Wilbur Drive
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: 650-498-6148

What We Offer You for MRI-Guided Cryoablation

  • World-renowned expertise from doctors who are leaders in using MRI-guided therapies for targeted, customized treatment.
  • Highly specialized treatment that safely and effectively eliminates cancer and removes noncancerous tumors with minimal risks and side effects.
  • Team approach to care with skilled interventional radiologists and oncologists who collaborate on your behalf. You receive complete, compassionate care.

What Is MRI-Guided Cryoablation?

About MRI-Guided Cryoablation

MRI-guided cryoablation is a nonsurgical procedure that targets abnormal tissue without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. Cryoablation destroys cancerous and noncancerous tumors by freezing them. We also use MRI-guided cryoablation to treat vascular malformations (blood vessel irregularities).

MR imaging allows us to see the abnormal tissue and surrounding healthy tissue in real time before, during, and after treatment. With this precise visualization, our doctors can target only the affected areas and minimize the impact on healthy structures.

4:16
Understanding Cryoablation for Desmoid Tumor
Play Video | 4:16
Understanding Cryoablation for Desmoid Tumor
Stanford Medicine’s Sarcoma and Radiology researchers explain a groundbreaking approach to treating Desmoid Tumors without chemotherapy. Learn more about Cryoablation and how it improved life for patient Maura LaVerdi.

What to Expect With MRI-Guided Cryoablation

MRI-guided cryoablation can take up to four hours, and you will likely go home the same day. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after:

  • Before

  • During

  • After

Before the Procedure

  • You may need tests to confirm you’re a good candidate for MRI-guided cryoablation.
  • Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.
  • Depending on the procedure, you may need to empty your bowels and fast beforehand. Your doctor will provide specific preparation instructions.
  • You need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

During the Procedure

  • You receive general anesthesia and are asleep during the procedure.
  • Your doctor inserts thin needles into the area to be treated.
  • We position you in the MRI machine. Using MRI technology, your doctor sees the tumor (or abnormal tissue) and surrounding areas in high resolution.
  • Through the needles, your doctor freezes and kills the abnormal tissue. We closely monitor temperatures and use warm water to help protect surrounding healthy tissue.
  • While you are still in the MRI machine, your doctor views the treated area to confirm that the tumor is gone.

After the Procedure

  • You will likely go home the same day.
  • If you received treatment for prostate cancer, you may need to use a catheter for up to a week to help with urination. We may prescribe medications to help with pain and prevent catheter complications.
  • You can return to work and other activities within a few days.
  • Your doctor will let you know when you should return for follow-up visits.
  • We continue ongoing monitoring with in-person or video visits, blood tests, and MRI imaging. You may also need additional biopsies of the treated area.
Before

Before the Procedure

  • You may need tests to confirm you’re a good candidate for MRI-guided cryoablation.
  • Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.
  • Depending on the procedure, you may need to empty your bowels and fast beforehand. Your doctor will provide specific preparation instructions.
  • You need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

close Before
During

During the Procedure

  • You receive general anesthesia and are asleep during the procedure.
  • Your doctor inserts thin needles into the area to be treated.
  • We position you in the MRI machine. Using MRI technology, your doctor sees the tumor (or abnormal tissue) and surrounding areas in high resolution.
  • Through the needles, your doctor freezes and kills the abnormal tissue. We closely monitor temperatures and use warm water to help protect surrounding healthy tissue.
  • While you are still in the MRI machine, your doctor views the treated area to confirm that the tumor is gone.

close During
After

After the Procedure

  • You will likely go home the same day.
  • If you received treatment for prostate cancer, you may need to use a catheter for up to a week to help with urination. We may prescribe medications to help with pain and prevent catheter complications.
  • You can return to work and other activities within a few days.
  • Your doctor will let you know when you should return for follow-up visits.
  • We continue ongoing monitoring with in-person or video visits, blood tests, and MRI imaging. You may also need additional biopsies of the treated area.

close After

Our Clinics

Minimally Invasive MR Interventional Center (MIMRIC)
Minimally Invasive MR Interventional Center (MIMRIC)
900 Blake Wilbur Drive
 Palo Alto, CA 94304
Phone: 650-498-6148 Getting Here
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To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-498-6148